CD Reviews

Yes, it's jazz.

Bruce Kula | Indian Rocks Beach, FL USA | 11/16/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"To begin with, let me admit the singular but clear failing of Whatever: it's about eleven hours too short. This recording has fueled debates about whether it's jazz, and about what jazz is, but that's no failing. It's a testament to how many sources Mr. Thompson and his friends have drawn from.Bernie Holland's crisp guitar sometimes invokes Argentina, and Tony Roberts' pipes suggest an England long past, tempting some reviewers to call this "world music". That's no insult, but it doesn't convey, for example, how Roberts can make a saxophone sound like a heart-wrenching catch in his throat, or Holland can switch to a harmonic-ringing rock style at will.Holding this together is probably the most readily recognizable double bassist still in action. Danny's muscular and skillful technique, which should astonish any musician who plays something with strings, is never an impediment; every note comes across as fresh and heartfelt. Ellington waved off academic arguments about jazz with the breezy statement that there is only good music and bad music. Whatever is of the good variety."